The emergency room doors opened again as darkness fell.


    Cordell emerged.


    Everyone’s gaze settled on Cordell, filled with hope.


    “Matthew’s head has taken a severe blow, and the bullet came within an inch of his heart.


    We’ve managed to stabilize him for now, but his condition remains critical.


    His survival will depend on the next 48 hours,” Cordell exined, his expression grave.


    Upon hearing this, a sharp pain shot through Ste’s heart.


    She felt her strength drain away, leaving her body half numb.


    Miley, shocked, supported her, whispering, “Ste.


    .


    ”


    Matthew had been inside for what seemed like an eternity, and those waiting outside had been equally gripped by fear.


    Cordell’s words only deepened their dread.


    After a day filled with anxiety, Lucia copsed, and Amara too seemed to slip into a state of unconsciousness.


    Exhausted, Waldo sank into a chair, clutching his cane and gasping for breath.


    Chaos erupted once again.


    Cordell quickly asked the nurses to take Lucia and Amara to the wards.


    Once everyone was taken care of, he couldn’t ignore Ste’s distraught appearance.


    He paused, and then said, “Matthew is in aa.


    It’s crucial you stay strong now, to give hope to the others.


    If you give up…”


    His voice broke.


    He took a moment topose himself before adding, “Matthew wouldn’t want to see you like this”


    Ste remained silent, barely registering the words spoken to her.


    Looking at her wedding dress, stained with blood, Cordell sighed and turned to Miley.


    “If you can talk her into it, take her to change and get something to eat first.


    If anythinges up, call me anytime.


    I’ll be at the hospital tonight.


    ”


    Miley nodded immediately.


    “Go ahead with your work.


    I’ll take care of her.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ”


    Once Cordell had left, the corridor outside the emergency room fell quiet.


    After sitting there for a long time, Ste tugged at Miley’s sleeve.


    “Take me to see him.


    ”


    Relieved that she had finally spoken, Miley quickly helped her to her feet.


    Matthew had been taken to the ICU.


    Through the ss, Ste saw his body covered with tubes.


    She bit her lower lip, tears welling up in her eyes.


    Ever since she’d met Matthew, he’d been full of life.


    She had never seen him like this.


    She had been holding back her tears all night, but now, she couldn’t hold them in any longer.


    Miley wrapped her arms around her and said, “Go ahead and cry.


    It’s okay.


    ”